Helpful Tips in Training Your Dog

When teaching your dog tricks and appropriate behavior, it is important that you do it the right way. As much as possible, make it a worthwhile experience for your dog.

You may not be sure of what to do when training your dog. And when you ask around, they might get give you all sorts tricks that you end up getting confused. Here are some great tips that you can use to effectively train your furry friends.

Pay attention to your dog.

It is important give your dog the attention that he needs. If your dog is not comfortable about meeting another dog or animal, don’t insist. He is not shy; he’s simply telling you he’s uncomfortable for a reason, and that should be respected. Note that forcing the issue would just lead to bigger problems in the future.

Be consistent.

Whenever you train your dog, it is important to get the family involved. If you tell your dog “off” when he gets on the couch and someone else tells them “down” (to mean the same thing), while another wants him to just hang out there; how will he ever learn? In any training, consistency is the key to your success.

Give affection to your dog when necessary.

Most people don’t have a problem about punishing their dogs when they behave inappropriately. However, some often ignore an appropriate behavior, which is actually a big mistake. Make sure to give your dog lots of attention when they do something right. Give him treats or take him to the groomer. Let him know he’s been a good boy, and take time to be very generous with your praises and affection.

Does he like the treat you reward him?

Not all dogs love the treat you reward them. Some dogs may be very selective about the food they like to eat. Often, soft and chewy treats are usually more exciting for your dog than those that are hard and crunchy. Pay attention to what your dog actually enjoys.

The difference between bribery and reward

Treats are usually equated to bribery. But to be honest, dogs do what works for them. If treats get them to do an appropriate behavior, then go ahead. Every human-to-dog interaction is actually a learning opportunity. If you think about it, you don’t have to use food very often when teaching your dogs except for active training sessions. Often, they continue to hang out with you because of the praises, games, and walks you reinforce to them. Just bear in mind that the behavior should produce the treat, and not the other way around.

Set realistic expectations.

Training your dog takes a lot of patience. You need to set realistic expectations when you change or correct their behavior. Note that while it is easy to teach dogs when they’re still young, you can actually train them any time. It is never too late to change their behavior, although it will sometimes take longer.